Material Syntax 2026 - The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery

*Fronds*, 2025. Avery Ross, Megan Sobkowich, Kate Cummings. Photo courtesy of David Correa

Material Syntax: 3D Printed Masonry Façade Systems

January 16 – March 27, 2026

Exhibition coordinated by David Correa and Yannik Sigouin

University of Waterloo Architecture students investigate how the building facades of the future can be 3D printed with clay. Inspired by nature, ancient architectural traditions, and emerging technologies, the projects reimagine the clay masonry unit through new design methods and fabrication processes.

Working with a state-of-the-art large-volume clay extrusion 3D printer, students in Assistant Professor David Correa’s studio investigate how a traditional material like clay can be transformed for a contemporary architectural context. The technology enables an unprecedented level of design freedom compared to conventional brick-making, while still engaging the inherent properties and traditions of clay as a building material.

The exhibition presents a selection of undergraduate and graduate student work that explores the architectural potential of 3D-printed clay facades, where each unit can be uniquely customized. The projects include playful wall systems, ornamental and light-modulating cladding, as well as functional facade assemblies such as rainscreens and solar-shading systems.

Participants: [Maeve Wang, Jacob Kleiman, Kaleigh Nguyen], [Ian Bryane, Brienna Tran, Mikayla Brennan], [Kalen Schellenberg, Nabeeha Rahman, Mariem Saad], [Husna Khan, Anagha Thottam, Alessia Sciardi], [Brianna Klei, Tina Mousavi, Arik Abraham], [Avery Ross, Kate Cummings, Megan Sobkowich].

Special thanks to: Andrew Payne, Michael Syms, Heinz Koller, Jessica Steinhausser, Dean Palmer, Peter Flannery, Dean Garbutt and Stephen Smith.

Bricks kindly sponsored by Brampton Brick and Canada Brick. Mortar sponsored by Quikrete.

This exhibition is made possible by Masonry Council of Ontario in partnership with the School of Architecture, University of Waterloo and The Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery.